thread Re: Custom order pricing in Artists & Makers

Custom order pricing

MacrameByAmelia — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 20:04:36 GMT

How much should I charge for custom orders? I do macrame wall hangings, bags, plant hangers, ect.

Re: Custom order pricing

kayteeS — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 23:06:29 GMT

At least 50% (non-refundable) of estimated final cost. If "personalized", the balance before you add the name/other personalization that would make it difficult to sell to somebody else.

This way, you aren't out material costs if they flake on you. (Also, have a time limit to contact you/pay the balance after you notify them of completion). Don't ship until balance is paid/clears your bank.

Re: Custom order pricing

GeekInStitches — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 12:48:36 GMT

I was once burned by a custom order. It's been several years ago, but I learned from it.

I don't have customizations that make it specific to a person, like names, etc. This means that I can still potentially sell it to someone else, but it interrupts my workflow for other things. I see that as incurring a cost.

Non-refundable 50% up front and the remaining 50% when it's finished.

Re: Custom order pricing

JK_Fiber_Art — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 13:51:50 GMT

Hi Macramebyamelia,

Custom orders can be a challenge - you have to consider a few things:

Is this a new design or is it based off of something that you have made before? If it's a new design, that adds to the price as you have to consider the extra time and/or or materials it will take. Sometimes new designs don't always come out the way you want and it may take a revision or two until you are happy. This all adds to the cost.

Also suggest doing a written contract between you and your customer and be sure to include at least a 50% deposit with the balance due upon acceptance and/or delivery. Note, a non-refundable deposit is preferred, but that's up to you - you may be able to resell the item if the design is not over the top.

As for what to charge - consider similar sizes and designs and your current prices and go from there. We have sometimes double the price if it's a totally new design.